Cpt(K) wrote:Hey there,
So its been a while and I've graduated, have a job, and am looking forward to the summer . . . but I want to get in shape (cue the "swole" memes). Time isn't necessarily a concern, I mean, I've survived running around with kiddos at a summer camp for several years as I am. I'll be ecstatic if I can see and feel a difference by June or July though. What kind of plans do you guys know of? I don't imagine all of us are skinny "hardgainers" (I'm new to the terminology too), but I suspect a couple of you know a thing or two regardless.
I'm 5'11" (Some say 6'0"), weighing in at about 140 pounds. How would I begin? I'm a horrible eater, meaning, I'm not consistent and skip meals regularly
, do you know of a meal plan? Should I try protein shakes or other supplements?
Coming out of HS I was 6'0" 140, I wanted to put on size as well.
As the others have stated, it took me putting in more calories, but also eating more often in general. I started eating once every two hours, even if it was just a snack. Every morning I would use a protein shake (Up your mass by MHP), with a scoop of peanut butter in it. I would have a second protein shake around dinner time. Before bed I would drink a casein shake (Slow release protein).
Workout wise, I would be in the gym every other day. I focused more on heavy lifts (Overdid it at times, I regret that). Looking back, I actually don't think I gave my body enough time to recover, I was doing a bit much. Even with taking in a lot more calories, and working out, it was tough to put on size. I grew a couple more inches after graduating (I'm 6'2" now), and added about 20 lbs. I'm 33 now and weigh 186, but its not muscle really, Injuries have kind of set me back a bit.
I have regrets about my discipline during that time. I would do well for a month or so, and just fall off, and I would pick it up again later. Looking back on it now, I wish I had stuck with the program. My best advice would be: Don't deviate, stick to it, and you will get results. Get into a routine and stay motivated.
other than that, I guess my suggestion (like the others) is make it a priority to get in more calories without eating junk, and make the right decisions in the gym. Don't overdo it, let your muscles/body recover before hitting the weights again.